How to Apply for the Charity Worker Visa: A Practical Guide for Nigerians in the UK

Looking to give back while gaining UK experience? The Charity Worker Visa might be just what you need. If you’ve been offered a voluntary role by a UK-registered charity, this visa lets you support a good cause while expanding your global experience. It’s also a practical way for Nigerians interested in charity and community development to temporarily live and work in the UK — even if you’re already here and exploring future options.

🔑 Quick Facts

• Duration: Up to 12 months (non-renewable)
• Eligibility: Must be 18+, with a valid Certificate of Sponsorship from a UK charity
• Work Type: Voluntary/unpaid (paid jobs not allowed)
• Maintenance Funds: Must show at least £1,270 unless sponsor is covering costs
• No pathway to settlement, but a great short-term opportunity
• Travel allowed, but no access to public funds

✍🏽 Who Should Consider This Visa?

This visa is ideal for:

• Nigerians who are passionate about community service
• Faith-based volunteers (e.g. church missions)
• Students or graduates on a gap year
• Professionals taking a break to support non-profit work

🇬🇧 Step-by-Step: How to Apply for the Charity Worker Visa

✅ Step 1: Confirm Eligibility

You must:

• Be 18 or older
• Have a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from a licensed UK charity
• Be offered an unpaid, volunteer role
• Show proof of funds (£1,270) unless your sponsor confirms they’ll support you
• Undergo a TB test if applying from Nigeria or any listed country

📜 Step 2: Secure a Certificate of Sponsorship

Your sponsoring charity will provide this unique reference number. It shows:

• You’re genuinely needed for volunteer work
• You won’t be replacing paid staff
• The job fits the Charity Worker Visa category

🔁 Note: Your CoS is valid for only 3 months from the date of issue.

📂 Step 3: Prepare Your Documents

You’ll need:

• A valid Nigerian passport
• Your Certificate of Sponsorship number
• Bank statements proving financial support (unless exempt)
• A TB test certificate (if required)
• A letter from the charity confirming your unpaid role

Ensure everything is up-to-date, clear, and consistent.

🌍 Step 4: Apply Online

Visit the UK government website and choose the Temporary Work – Charity Worker category.

You’ll:

• Complete your personal and travel history
• Enter your CoS number
• Upload all required documents
• Pay the visa fee
• Book your biometric appointment

📸 Step 5: Attend Biometric Appointment

At your local UK Visa Application Centre (e.g. Abuja or Lagos), you’ll:

• Give your fingerprints
• Take a digital photo

If your visa is granted, you’ll get a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) upon arrival (if your stay is over 6 months), or a vignette sticker in your passport.

⏳ Step 6: Wait for a Decision

Processing usually takes about 3 weeks. If approved, you’ll receive full instructions on your next steps.

If rejected, you’ll be told why — and although you can’t appeal, you may reapply if your situation changes.

👀 What You Can and Can’t Do

✅ Allowed:

• Volunteer full-time for your sponsoring charity
• Travel in and out of the UK during your visa period

❌ Not Allowed:

• Paid work
• Access to public benefits
• Extending your stay or switching visas in most cases

⚠️ Disclaimer & Scam Warning

We at Naija UK Connect are not immigration agents. All information provided is for general guidance and public awareness. Always apply directly via official UK government channels and beware of scammers claiming to help in exchange for money.

💡 Final Word

Whether you’re in Nigeria planning to volunteer abroad or a Nigerian in the UK looking to legally contribute to a cause, the Charity Worker Visa is a structured, fulfilling route worth exploring.